Posts Tagged ‘college scholarships’

Finding money to fund your college education can be a tough process, but as these scholarships show there’s something available for everyone. If you happen to have an offbeat hobby that not too many people take part in, then one of these may be exactly right for you. While some of these scholarships are only available at certain colleges, I’ve tried to keep the list as broad as possible. Good luck in your academic endeavors!

1.LaFontaine Aquatic Entomology Scholarship

This scholarship is for graduate students seeking advanced degrees in the field of Aquatic Entomology. Sponsored by the Federation of Fly Fishers this award is given out annually, and requires that the student submit a resume, research synopsis, and letter of recommendation from a faculty member.

2.The Fragrance Research Fund

Another scholarship for graduate students, this one is for psychologists working in the field of aromachology. While it may sound funny, the 2004 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine went to a research team studying smells. With scholarships up to $50,000 it certainly isn’t something to turn your nose up at.

3.Potato Industry Scholarship

The National Potato Council rewards up to $5,000 to graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in Agribusiness that directly affect the potato industry. The award is based on your academic achievement, leadership abilities, and the relevancy of your work to the potato industry.

While a belief in Santa isn’t a requirement for this scholarship, having that festive spirit certainly doesn’t hurt. Sponsored by the National Christmas Tree Association, this scholarship rewards up to $5,000 to students between the ages of 6-16 years old.

5.FBI Common Knowledge Challenge

At $250 this scholarship isn’t quite as fruitful as the others we’ve covered so far, but considering the ease with which you can get it there’s really no reason not to. The FBI has a site where you can read up about their organization, and then take a short online quiz about it. The contest is held the third week of October and the money will go directly to your school should you win.

6.Excellence in Predicting the Future Award

This scholarship requires you to register at the cenimar.com website and take part in a contest where you predict the futures of fake stocks. Intended to increase students’ interest in economics, it’s free to apply for and will net you $400 should you win.

With rewards of up to $25,000 this contest will put your apple pie baking skills to the test. As one of the premier culinary schools in the country, the CIA certainly has one of the best reputations in the industry. This scholarship will require you to share your recipe, take pictures of your pie, and write a 500 word essay on how you got the recipe.

8.National Make It Yourself with Wool Competition

Sponsored by the American Sheep Industry Association this scholarship rewards up to $5,000 to students who promote the versatility of wool in fabrics and yarns. If you have involvement in the sheep industry or in fabrics then this is certainly a lucrative opportunity.

9.The Ayn Rand Institute

The Ayn Rand Institute offers a large number of scholarships for essays on several of her works including The Fountainhead, Atlas Shrugged, We Are the Living, and Anthem. One contest winner for each essay is rewarded a $10,000 prize, with $2,000, $1,000, $100, and $50 prizes going out for the subsequent places. If you are interested in Ayn Rand’s works then this is a great opportunity to make some extra money for college.

10.Eileen J. Garret Scholarship from the Parapsychology Foundation

Do you have an interest in studying the paranormal using modern scientific techniques? If so this scholarship may be for you. You will have to provide samples of writings about parapsychology and letters of reference to prove your interest. At $3,000 this is a niche reward that can help quite nicely in your college funding.

11.The OP Loftbed Scholarship

Interestingly enough, OP Loftbed, the makers of the most popular loft bed for college students decides to give back in the form of a $400 scholarship. In order to qualify for the scholarship students need only to fill out a questionnaire on the OP Loftbed website.

12.The School Band and Orchestra Magazine Scholarship

This scholarship for grade school students’ promises $1000 reward for students up to grade 8 and an additional $1000 donation to the school’s music program for students in grades 9-12. Sponsored by the Jersey Surf Drum and Bugle store requires the candidate to write a 250 word essay on various musical subjects that changes every year.

13.The MoneyMatters101.com Scholarships

This scholarship rewards $300 to the winners of an essay contest on why or why not federal income taxes are fair. Unlike most websites with money in the title, this one is actually for real.

14.The Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Award

While The Elks may strike up visualizations of that one scene from the movie Stand By Me, it is a real organization and has an excellent scholarship program. With rewards going out to a total of 500 students every year, it is a competitive national event, but also comes with great rewards. Each candidate is evaluated on scholarship, leadership, and financial need and rewarded with a 4 year scholarship worth $1000 to $15,000 per year.

15.Tylenol Scholarship

While not quite as weird as the other scholarships on this list, Tylenol isn’t the first place I’d look for a scholarship. If you are studying in a healthcare related field, you can apply for this scholarship which will net you up to $10,000. Tylenol gives out 250 of these scholarships every year, which is good news since we all know how much of a headache school can give you.

16.The Discover Card Tribute Award

Wow, a credit card company handing out a scholarship? It’s great to see that at least one of them decides to give something back, and with rewards of up to $25,000 it can certainly put a big dent in your college debt. You will need to demonstrate community service, leadership, and a significant roadblock you have overcome in order to receive this award.

17.Tea Drinking Scholarship

The Calm-A-Sutra of Tea, an American Tea Council offers a scholarship two one student for $20,000 paid directly to the school. It is a video contest where the candidate must submit an original video about the health benefits of drinking tea. $20,000 may be enough to make tea lovers out of all of us, but you can expect some pretty stiff competition as well.

18.Greeting Card Scholarship

While you might be used to making fun of those “Hallmark Moments” there’s nothing funny about the $10,000 this scholarship rewards. In order to qualify you will need to submit original artwork to be used for the front cover of a greeting card. This is an excellent scholarship for art students that you might not readily think of.

19.Society of Vacuum Coaters Foundation Scholarship

Another scholarship for a niche market, you might not expect it but these guys have dished out $70,000 in scholarships so far. If you happen to be in a course of study that involves vacuum coating, then this is certainly a scholarship to look into. In order to apply you will need two references from your professors, and you will be judged based on the relevancy of your program, academic achievement, personal values, and financial need.

20.Collegiate Inventors Competition

For all of you aspiring inventors out there the United States Patents and Trademark Office sponsors a competition rewarding both graduate and undergraduate students with up to $15,000 and $10,000 rewards. Any invention is admissible and entries are judged based on how well articulated the idea is as well as to how beneficial it is to society.

21.Mycological Society of America Scholarships

These scholarships are primarily for graduate students and researchers that are already involved in mycological study. It’s tough to believe that people would have an interest in fungi outside of any academic involvement, which is probably why the only undergraduate rewards are for those involved in mycological research. Still, if you happen to fit into one of these categories they have plenty of different scholarships available ranging from $500 to $2000.

22.Michigan Llama Association (MLA) Scholarship

I can’t say I would have guessed that llama farming would’ve been popular in the state of Michigan, but apparently there are over 200 farms and 2500 llamas in the state. Who knew? Well, even if you aren’t a llama farmer you can join their organization and show your interest in llamas and farming to qualify for their $500 scholarship.

While it is tempting to describe this as a scholarship for fatties, you don’t actually need to be obese to qualify for this scholarship. Instead, you need to be actively involved in research surrounding the effects of obesity on health. You will need to submit a 750 word essay on your research and can expect a $1000 check in return.

24.International Boar Semen Scholarship

Not only is this a weird one, but it’s also quite gross. Still, animal husbandry is an important aspect of agribusiness so it is not surprising to see a scholarship for it. Having grown up in a small town myself, I can attest to the validity of this subject. Although this is probably the scholarship on this list that is easiest to make fun of, the people involved in this business do make a good bit of money. If you happen to be pursuing this line of work then this is a scholarship well worth looking into.

25.American Nudist Research Library Scholarship

If you happen to find the idea of spending 3 years living in a nudist colony to be your thing, then the American Nudist Research Library will reward you with a $1000 scholarship. While I can’t imagine many people would want to live as a nudist for 3 years for $1000, if you already happen to be a part of this fringe culture, then why not take advantage of what they have to offer?

There is plenty of financial aid available for worthy graduate students, as long as they apply for it as early as possible. Graduate students taking out loans need to be realistic about the job opportunities and additional income generated by obtaining a graduate degree.

You can typically save thousands of dollars by enrolling in a graduate degree program at a public university in the state where you’re a legal resident. Also, some states have reciprocal agreements with neighboring states which lets each state’s residents attend their colleges and universities at state tuition rates. For more information contact your state department of education or some schools of interest. Some states consider out-of-state students as residents after they have attended the school for one year.

Government Assistance

Federal Perkins Loans: Need-based program.

Subsidized Federal Stafford Loans: Students must have financial need as determined by their school.

Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans: Not based on financial need.

Cooperative Education: Combines education with an off-campus job related to the student’s program.

Work-Study: Need-based program in which the college finds jobs for students. Salary is usually close to minimum wage.

Graduate Stafford Loans

Graduate Stafford Loans are fixed rate loans for graduate students attending a college or university on at least a half-time basis. These loans are one of the lowest-cost ways to pay for graduate school. Graduate students using Subsidized Stafford Loans are not charged interest before they begin repayment or during periods of deferment.

Graduate PLUS Loan

The Graduate PLUS Loan is a non-need credit based loan, guaranteed by the Federal Government. Students can borrow the total cost of graduate school, including tuition, supplies, room and board, travel, and lab expenses. It’s a fixed rate student loan and payment can be deferred while students are attending college.

School Financial Assistance

Many colleges and universities offer teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and administrative fellowships. These positions typically include tuition waivers and some of them offer health insurance.

The recipients of departmental fellowships and scholarships are often determined by the departmental chair and not the financial aid office. Prospective graduate students should talk to a department staff member who’s knowledgeable about financial aid opportunities.

Perhaps the best type of college based financial aid is the fellowship. It’s a cash reward that doesn’t need to be repaid and typically doesn’t require the student to work. Most are based on an excellent academic record, however some are based on financial need. Fellowships usually include a stipend.

Corporations

Many companies sponsor tuition assistance programs. According to IRS regulations, employers can provide up to $5,250 for each employee per year on a tax-free basis. Additional employer tuition assistance is taxed. Employers may restrict the choice of a major to a subject related to the employee’s current or future position at the company. Some employers stipulate that the employee work for the company for a specific length of time after obtaining the degree.

Foundations

The Foundation Center in New York City publishes a reference book about graduate study financial aid. Grants provided in different fields are included in Grant Guides, a fee-based databank.

The National Research Council provides hundreds of fellowships of up to $14,000 per year for students in the natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, and mathematics.

Mellon Fellowships cover tuition and provide stipends for graduates students in the humanities.

Medical School

Some of the loans available for Medical School are MedSHARE-Nellie Mae, AAMC Medloans-Alternative Loan Program, and Medical Access Loans-Access Group.

Business School Loans

Some of the loans available for business school are MBADHARE-New England Loan Marketing Association-Nellie Mae, Business Access Loan Program-Access Group, and M.B.A. Loans/Tuition Loan Plan.

Online Resources

There are numerous online resources that help students find graduate education funding, and these include the following:

National Association of Graduate and Professional Studies

FastWEB

Thomson Peterson’s Graduate School Planning

The Foundation Center

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Programs

Education World

FinAid!

Education World

Putting together the best financial aid package requires a lot of research. However, taking the time to do this research could save you a lot of money on your graduate education.

College is the hope of all young people who want to get ahead in life and obtain a better job with higher pay in the future. A mix of today’s economy and rising tuition prices make it hard for everyone who wants to go to college to be able to attend. But it is not impossible. Public colleges generally have lower tuition than private schools, but often lack the prestige of their private counterparts. However, one of the advantages of attending a private college is that they generally offer more tuition discounts than public schools.

Income-based discounts

First of all, most private and public colleges offer some type of needs-based financial assistance. However, because public colleges often have lower tuition to begin with, they tend to offer less dollar amounts than private colleges. One of the reasons public schools can offer lower tuition is that they are subsidized by taxpayers. Private schools, on the other hand, don’t rely on taxes for support. Rather they generate income through alumni, donors, and the prestige of their faculty, as well as the tuition of students. So, in general, private college tuition is higher, but those colleges are more likely to offer large amounts of financial assistance to promising students who otherwise might not be able to afford the cost. For example, Ivy League colleges, like Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, offer needs-based tuition assistance to smart, yet underprivileged, students.

Religious and group affiliation

Private colleges can also offer more tuition discounts because they are able to offer discounts based on religious or group affiliation. Public institutions cannot offer tuition discounts for religious or group affiliation, but because private intuitions are not funded by public money, they have much greater discretion in offering tuition discounts. For example, Brigham Young University offers discounted tuition to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and many other religious-based and bible colleges offer discounts to students who are members of a certain faith. Private colleges can also offer discounts to members of certain professional or social organizations.

Special incentives

Lastly, private colleges are much more likely to offer tuition discounts as special incentives to specific students. Public institutions often have policies regarding tuition discounts that outline specific requirements that they cannot deviate from and still receive tax funding. On the other hand, private institutions can offer tuition discounts to any student they feel is valuable, desirable, or brings certain skills or prestige to the school. For example, if a student has been accepted to multiple colleges and universities, a private college may offer a tuition discount as an incentive to that student, if they feel the student would be a valuable asset to their school. These types of tuition discounts are offered on an individual basis and are not generally offered to large groups of students.

If you are contemplating going to college but are worried about the cost, it might be worth it to check out the extra assistance that private colleges may be able to offer you.

Gunter Jameson writes about several topics including travel, minimalism and online classes.

making it the nation’s largest minority scholarship program. The award was established in 1999 with a $1 billion grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The scholarship’s format is very unique. It does not offer predetermined awards. Instead, it selects the nation’s best and brightest minority students and grants them awards based on individual financial need.

The scholarship is open to all students who:

·Are nonwhite.

·Have an unweighted GPA of at least 3.3 on a 4.0 scale or have obtained a GED.

·Will enroll for the first time as a full-time, degree-seeking student in an accredited US college or university.

·Have an exemplary record of community service, extracurricular participation, and leadership.

·Meet federal Pell Grant eligibility.

·Submit application materials by the scholarship’s deadline.

To apply for the Gates Millennium Scholarship, visit the scholarship website.Read through the “nominee instructions,” and create an account. The application consists of three parts:

·Nominee Form. This asks questions about you and your finances.

·Nominator Form. One of your educators should fill-out this form. It asks for information about your academic qualifications and habits.

·Recommender Form. Any non-relative familiar with your participation in community service and extracurricular activities should fill-out this form. It asks about your leadership abilities and community service experience.

All necessary forms can be completed online, and the application deadline is usually in January.

This scholarship can be an excellent resource for qualified minority students, and anyone who meets the above criteria should apply.

During the last few months, newspapers have been filled with articles about how the recent healthcare reform bill will affect different groups of Americans. They mention the elderly, the young, the rich, the poor, the majority, the minority, the Democrats, and the Republicans. However, many of these reports fail to mention college students, who will be affected by a piece of legislation attached to the healthcare bill. This legislation will have an immediate impact on students and could make a lasting mark on the student loan industry.
Most changes included in the bill (called the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act or SAFRA) will save college students money. Primarily, SAFRA discontinues the program that allowed private banks to offer federally backed student loans, mandating that all federally backed student loans be taken directly from the government. However, private, nonprofit organizations will still be allowed to service the loans. This will reduce the amount of fees that students have to pay while maintaining a similar level of customer service. The act also caps the maximum monthly loan payment that the government can demand after the recipient graduates at 10% of his or her income. The Congressional Budget Office has stated that these changes will save the government about $61
billion over the next 10 years. Under the legislation, most of these savings will go toward raising the size of the maximum Pell grant from $5,550 to $5,975 by 2017 (it will begin to rise in 2013 by a yearly amount that is based on changes in the Consumer Price Index). Without this legislation the maximum Pell grant would have fallen to a mere $2,150 by 2011.
Though SAFRA will help the average student, many claim that its provisions will make student loans tougher to repay. There’s no question that federal student loans are slightly cheaper when taken directly through the government. However, private banks were able to compete with the government by offering repayment
incentives and missed-payment forgiveness. SAFRA will eliminate these things by removing private banks from the government-backed student loan market, but
little evidence exists to suggest that this will significantly raise the overall student loan default rate, especially since the bill lowers the cap on the monthly payment that the government can demand.
Students will need to make a few changes in order to adapt to the new legislation. All recipients of federal student loans will need to sign a new Master Promissory Note with the Department of Education (parents will also need to sign a new one for any student loans under their names). Many colleges have already begun to hold workshops that explain how to do this. Anyone who took a
federally backed student loan through a private bank should also thoroughly review his or her repayment plan to ensure that it has not been affected.
Though SAFRA will have an immediate and lasting impact on the student loan market, it will not significantly affect financial aid eligibility requirements or the amount of aid that college students receive. However, those who have or may need student loans should review applicable guidelines and sign a new Master Promissory Note.

Are you interested in becoming a teacher? Are you willing to teach in a high-need subject area in a low-income school? If so, you may be eligible for the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant. The TEACH program was created in 2007 to help provide highly qualified teachers to low-income schools for the most needed subjects. The grant is a non-need based program (meaning you can qualify no matter what your income), provides up to $4,000 each year and can be renewed each year for a total of $16,000 for undergraduate students and up to $8,000 for masters students.

The grant is provided to students who intend to teach in either a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves low-income students. Low-income, for the TEACH grant, is defined as any school receiving Title I funding or on an Indian reservation. You can search for which schools are identified as “low-income” in your area by visiting: www.tcli.ed.gov.

Recipients of the TEACH grant must also work in a high-need or teacher shortage field. These fields are defined as subject shortage areas, not geographic areas (unlike some other programs). The TEACH program defines national high-need fields as: Bilingual Education or English Language Acquisition, Foreign Language, Mathematics, Reading Specialist, Science and Special Education. However, recipients can also work in state-wide or local high-need subject areas, which often provide a much broader list of subjects. You can see a complete list of state-by-state subject need areas here: www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/pol/tsa.doc.

TEACH grant applicants must work as a highly qualified teacher in a high-need subject at a low-income school as defined above for at least 4 years within the first 8 years after finishing college or grad school. Here are the other eligibility requirements to receive a TEACH grant:

Must complete a FAFSA (though you do not have to demonstrate financial need)

Must be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen

Must be enrolled in a school that participate in the TEACH program (which is most of them)

Must be enrolled in coursework that is necessary to becoming a teach or building your knowledge in the field you want to teach

Much sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve (which just says that you understand the conditions of the program)

Must meet certain academic achievement requirements, which usually means maintaining a minimum 3.25 GPA in High School or in your first year of college OR scoring above the 75th percentile on a college admissions test

It’s important to be sure that you want to be a teacher before taking the TEACH grant, because if you do not fulfill the service requirements of the grant or you decide you do not want to be a teacher, the TEACH grant will be converted into an Unsubsidized Stafford Loan- meaning you will have to repay the cost of the grant with interest. But if you are sure you want to teach and you are willing to spend a few years as a teacher in a high-need subject at a low-income school, the TEACH grant can be a great way get money for college without having financial need or extremely high test scores and grades. You can find out more about the TEACH grant by visiting: https://teach-ats.ed.gov/ats/index.action.

Latinos and Latinas are American’s largest and fastest growing minority group. According to the US Census Bureau, Hispanics made up 15% of the total US population in 2008. Yet unfortunately Latino/as have the lowest high school completion rate and college attendance rate of any racial or ethnic group. Latino/a students face a number of barriers in their educational careers including language, social, cultural, citizenship and – perhaps most importantly – economic challenges. As a subcategory, Hispanic women additionally face their own unique social concerns and cultural challenges which affect their ability to attend college. Because of these institutional obstacles, however, numerous private, public and college-based scholarships have been created to help close the gap is Hispanic college attendance rates, many of which are designed specifically for Latinas. An abundance of college funding sources see the wisdom in helping to end the under-education of Latino/a youth – the fastest growing segment of the American workforce – and in working to increase female representation in college. Below are some of the most popular scholarship opportunities for Latino/as and Hispanic women.

In addition to the number of specific sources for Latino/a scholarships, you can find more opportunities at www.latinocollegedollars.org, a scholarship database solely for Hispanic students.

General Scholarships and Resources for Latino/a Students

The Hispanic Heritage Foundation is an organization that indentifies and supports young Latino/a leaders in the classroom and community. The Foundation has honored more over 1,500 students and awarded more than $3,000,000 in educational grants. The Foundation’s website also provides a list of many other scholarship opportunities available to Latino/a students.

The Hispanic College Fund is both a scholarship program and an organization designed to support Latino/a students on their path through school. Since 1993, HCF has given away $15 million in scholarships to over 5,000 Hispanic young people. Applicants must be a US citizens or a permanent resident residing in the 50 states or Puerto Rico, must have a minimum GPA of a 3.0, must plan to enroll as a full-time undergraduate student during the following year in the US.

The Hispanic Scholarship Fundprovides the Hispanic community more college scholarships and educational outreach support than any other organization in the country. In its 34 year history, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund has awarded close to $280 million in scholarships to more than 90,000 students in need. Two-thirds of these students were the first in their families to go to college.

The Gates Millennium Scholars program is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and has sponsored over 13,000 students since its creations. Applicants must be African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian and Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American, US citizens or legal permanent residents or nationals, have a minimum GPA of 3.3, will be enrolling for the first-time at a U.S. accredited college or university as a full-time, degree-seeking, first-year student in the following year, have demonstrated leadership abilities through participation in community service, extracurricular or other activities, and must meet the Federal Pell Grant eligibility criteria.

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities represents over 450 colleges and universities which are committed to higher education for Hispanics. The organization also funds a number of program specific scholarship for students who attend one of its member schools. Scholarships amounts depend on field of study and the largest scholarship is over $3500.

Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, Inc. offers scholarship opportunities to Latino students in the United Stateswho have a history of performing public service-oriented activities in their communities and who demonstrate a desire to continue their civic engagement in the future. There is no GPA or academic major requirement. Students with excellent leadership potential are encouraged to apply. Scholarships are one-time awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. The CHCI also provides extensive information about other scholarships, internships and fellowships for Latino/a youth.

College Board’s National Hispanic Scholar Recognition Program provides annual awards for outstanding Hispanic high school students who are U.S. citizens. Students must take the PSAT/NMSQT test in the fall of their high school junior year during which they must affirm their Hispanic heritage – this is the initial screening and the first opportunity for students to qualify for the program. Students who score well are then asked to complete an application form. Award is based on recommendations, SAT scores, extracurricular activities, community service, high school academic transcripts and records, and personal attributes.

Cuban-American Scholarship Fund a scholarship program for undergraduate or graduate students of Cuban descent with a GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents of California. Maximum award amount is $2,000.

No website available.

Latin American Education Foundation has provided over $5 million in scholarships to Hispanic students or students involved in the Hispanic community. Applicants must be Colorado residents, have at least a 3.0 GPA, and commit 10-community service hours during year of funding.

The Sallie Mae Fund First in My Family Scholarship Program, developed in partnership with the Hispanic College Fund, offers scholarships to Hispanic-American students who are the first in their family to attend college, and have financial need. The program is open to Hispanic Americans who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled as full-time undergraduate students at approved, accredited institutions who have a minimum GPA of 3.0 Scholarships range from $500 to $5,000.

The Adelante Fund Scholarship Program sponsors several scholarship programs with amounts ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. Criteria vary by scholarship but most require a minimum 3.0 GPA, Hispanic heritage and either US citizenship or legal permanent resident status. See website for more information.

The Emerging Latino Leaders Scholarship Program is a national essay contest sponsored by the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) and Best Buy Children’s Foundation. Two $10,000 and three $5,000 scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and community service.

The La Unidad Latina Foundation offers academic scholarships of $250 to $1,000 for Hispanic students enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program at a 4-year US college or university. Applicants must have completed one full-time year of undergraduate education or at least one full-time semester of graduate study and GPA between 2.8 and 3.6

The Orange County Hispanic Education Endowment Fund provides more than 100 scholarships worth more than $150,000 to Orange County Hispanic students. Award amounts range from $500 to $4,000. Applicants must either be graduating from an OC high school or transferring from an OC community college. Minimum GPA requirements vary by scholarship program. All applicants must demonstrate financial need. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic achievement, community service and/or work history.

The Salvadoran American Leadership and Educational Fund offers the “Fulfilling Our Dreams” scholarships Salvadoran, Central American, and Latino high school seniors, college students and graduate or professional students who reside and study in California, Houston or WashingtonDC.The scholarships are open to all students regardless of immigration or citizenship status. Applicants must be majoring in health-related fields of study, theology, philosophy, cultural studies, environmental studies or social justice. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. Award amounts range from $500 to $2,500 (some may be renewable). A minimum 2.5 GPA is required; some awards require at least a 3.0 GPA. Scholarship recipients are expected to participate in community service and/or mentorship of high school students.

The Smithsonian Institution offers the Latino Studies Predoctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships to facilitate research related to Latino history, art and culture using Smithsonian resources. The predoctoral fellowships provide a stipend of $27,000 per year plus allowances. The postdoctoral fellowships offer a stipend of $42,000 per year plus allowances. There is also a research allowance of up to $4,000.

The Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement provides the ComEd Latino Scholarship Fund which awards five $2,500 scholarships to Illinois residents who have a 3.0 or higher GPA. Eligible majors include accounting, business, chemistry, communications, computer science, engineering, pre-law, mathematics, media relations and physics. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic excellence and community service.

The National Association of Hispanic Journalists offers several scholarships through the Rubén Salazar Scholarship Fund program. These scholarships are designed to encourage and assist Latino students pursue careers in journalism. Awards from $1,000 to $2,000. The NAHJ also provides information about a number of other scholarships available to Hispanic students interested in journalism.

The Advancing Hispanic Excellence in Technology, Engineering, Math, and Science (AHETEMS) Scholarship Program provides merit-based and need-based scholarships, in the amount of $1,000 – $5,000, to deserving Latino/a high school graduating seniors, undergraduate students, and graduate students who demonstrate both significant motivation and aptitude for a career in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.

National Society of Hispanic MBAsprovides scholarships for Hispanic business majors and Master of Business Administration graduate students of between $2,500 and $10,000. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA from an accredited undergraduate institution, with some exceptions.

National Association of Hispanic Nurses provides 27 Hispanic students entering or enrolled in an accredited school of nursing scholarships in the amount of $1,000. The NAHN also provides information about a number of other scholarships for Hispanic students.

The Costco Pharmacy Scholars Program offers funds to students who are pursuing a degree in Pharmacy who have completed one-year of pharmacy school or are in their second year into their pharmacy education. Students who are chosen for the Pharmacy Scholars Program are required to work at a Costco Pharmacy store for at least one year and are awarded between $500 and $9,500. Applicants must be of Hispanic background, pursing a degree in Pharmacy, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident residing in the United States or Puerto Rico, be studying full-time as an undergraduate at an accredited university in the United States or Puerto Rico, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and demonstrate financial need.

The Google Hispanic Scholarship Program offers funds to students studying computer science or computer engineering who are juniors or seniors in college or pursuing a Master’s or PhD. Selected scholars will be invited to an all-expenses paid trip to the Google Headquarters in California.Must be Hispanic or of Hispanic background, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident residing in the US, studying full-time in the US or Puerto Rico, and have at least a 3.5 GPA.

See Hispanic Scholarship Fund for more details.

World Studio.org is a non-profit, international arts organization that promotes the work and education of minority and disadvantaged students in the fields of graphic arts, painting, furniture design, new media, photography, and other art forms. Awards range from $2,000 to $6,000.

While tradition and social conditions have sometimes limited the opportunities available to women in the past, today this struggle may prove to be an advantage when it comes to getting scholarship money. In fact, minority women, especially those with a passion for math, science or computers, have more leverage power for earning scholarship money than almost any other group! Here are just a few scholarships for Latinas.

Hispanic Women in Leadershipawards scholarships to graduating seniors based on academic performance, leadership, and economic need. Applicants must be enrolled in a college or university in Texas, ranked in the upper 1/4 of her class, and submit several supporting documents such as letters of recommendation and essays.

The AT&T Labs Fellowship Program offers three-year fellowships to outstanding under-represented minority and women students pursuing PhD studies in computing and communications-related fields. In addition to one-on-one mentoring, the fellowship pays all education expenses as well as a living stipend. Each recipient participates in a summer internship the first summer in the program, working in a research team at AT&T Labs Research. Applicant must be a US citizen or permanent resident, female or member of a minority underrepresented in science fields (Hispanic, African-American, or Native American)senior graduating in the current academic year or in their first or second year of grad school, currently enrolled, or planning to enroll, in a graduate school program leading to a PhD, and major field must be in computer science, math, statistics, electrical engineering, operations research, systems engineering, industrial engineering, or related fields.

The Hispanic Women’s Corporation Scholarship Program provides not only tuition support, but advice, encouragement, peer contact with the colleges, role models, an alumni base and success stories to motivate students. Monetary awards are based on grade point average,need, interest, volunteerism and dedication. Awards have ranged from $300 to $10,000 annually. HWC awards over 50 scholarships annually and students are presented at the annual HWC Scholarship Benefit Luncheon. HWC also provides information about additional sites for scholarship availability with descriptions and deadlines.

The Latin American Professional Women’s Foundation provides scholarship money to young women who can be considered “role models” for young Latinas. Award amount is $500.

No website available.

Project Cambio offers a scholarship to Hispanic women pursuing studies in a business-related program. The applicant must be planning a career change that will lead to advancement, a new proficiency or entry or re-entry into the work force. Applicants should have been out of high school at least 5 years.

No website available.

Society of Women Engineers Rockwell International Corp. Scholarshipsis for female minority students studying computer science or engineering who areattending or planning to attend an institution that is SWE approved or has an Accreditation Board ofEngineering and Technology program. Awards are based on academic achievement and leadershipexperience or potential. Scholarship amounts range from $1,000 to $10,000.

Young Latinas Leadership Institute is a program of 100 Hispanic Women, a nonprofit, nonpartisan women’s organization with members from a wide range of industries and interests. The Institute provides students with annual scholarships of $1,000, leadership seminars, mentors, and internships. Five Latinas are selected every year. Applicants must be college freshmen at one of the City University of New York college campuses

The Chicana/Latina Foundation Scholarship Fund assists Latina students to complete their undergraduate and graduate education. The scholarships are available on a competitive basis to continuing undergraduate and graduate female college students of Latino background. Applicants must be enrolled in accredited colleges or universities in one of the following Bay Area counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marina, Monterey, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, or Sonoma. In addition, applicants must be residents of the Bay area for at least two years at time of application, and must have demonstrated leadership and civic/community involvement. Awards are for $1,500. Recipients must agree to volunteer a minimum of five hours in support of the Chicana/Latina Foundation.

Latinos and Latinas are American’s largest and fastest growing minority group. According to the US Census Bureau, Hispanics made up 15% of the total US population in 2008. Yet unfortunately Latino/as have the lowest high school completion rate and college attendance rate of any racial or ethnic group. Latino/a students face a number of barriers in their educational careers including language, social, cultural, citizenship and – perhaps most importantly – economic challenges. As a subcategory, Hispanic women additionally face their own unique social concerns and cultural challenges which affect their ability to attend college. Because of these institutional obstacles, however, numerous private, public and college-based scholarships have been created to help close the gap is Hispanic college attendance rates, many of which are designed specifically for Latinas. An abundance of college funding sources see the wisdom in helping to end the under-education of Latino/a youth – the fastest growing segment of the American workforce – and in working to increase female representation in college. Below are some of the most popular scholarship opportunities for Latino/as and Hispanic women.

In addition to the number of specific sources for Latino/a scholarships, you can find more opportunities at www.latinocollegedollars.org, a scholarship database solely for Hispanic students.

General Scholarships and Resources for Latino/a Students

The Hispanic Heritage Foundation is an organization that indentifies and supports young Latino/a leaders in the classroom and community. The Foundation has honored more over 1,500 students and awarded more than $3,000,000 in educational grants. The Foundation’s website also provides a list of many other scholarship opportunities available to Latino/a students.

The Hispanic College Fund is both a scholarship program and an organization designed to support Latino/a students on their path through school. Since 1993, HCF has given away $15 million in scholarships to over 5,000 Hispanic young people. Applicants must be a US citizens or a permanent resident residing in the 50 states or Puerto Rico, must have a minimum GPA of a 3.0, must plan to enroll as a full-time undergraduate student during the following year in the US.

The Hispanic Scholarship Fund provides the Hispanic community more college scholarships and educational outreach support than any other organization in the country. In its 34 year history, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund has awarded close to $280 million in scholarships to more than 90,000 students in need. Two-thirds of these students were the first in their families to go to college.

The Gates Millennium Scholars program is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and has sponsored over 13,000 students since its creations. Applicants must be African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian and Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American, US citizens or legal permanent residents or nationals, have a minimum GPA of 3.3, will be enrolling for the first-time at a U.S. accredited college or university as a full-time, degree-seeking, first-year student in the following year, have demonstrated leadership abilities through participation in community service, extracurricular or other activities, and must meet the Federal Pell Grant eligibility criteria.

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities represents over 450 colleges and universities which are committed to higher education for Hispanics. The organization also funds a number of program specific scholarship for students who attend one of its member schools. Scholarships amounts depend on field of study and the largest scholarship is over $3500.

The ASPIRA Association, Inc. provides information about a number of educational opportunities and scholarships for Puerto Ricans and other Hispanics.www.aspira.org/manuals/scholarships

Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, Inc. offers scholarship opportunities to Latino students in the United States who have a history of performing public service-oriented activities in their communities and who demonstrate a desire to continue their civic engagement in the future. There is no GPA or academic major requirement. Students with excellent leadership potential are encouraged to apply. Scholarships are one-time awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. The CHCI also provides extensive information about other scholarships, internships and fellowships for Latino/a youth.

College Board’s National Hispanic Scholar Recognition Program provides annual awards for outstanding Hispanic high school students who are U.S. citizens. Students must take the PSAT/NMSQT test in the fall of their high school junior year during which they must affirm their Hispanic heritage – this is the initial screening and the first opportunity for students to qualify for the program. Students who score well are then asked to complete an application form. Award is based on recommendations, SAT scores, extracurricular activities, community service, high school academic transcripts and records, and personal attributes.

Cuban-American Scholarship Fund a scholarship program for undergraduate or graduate students of Cuban descent with a GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents of California. Maximum award amount is $2,000.

No website available.

Latin American Education Foundation has provided over $5 million in scholarships to Hispanic students or students involved in the Hispanic community. Applicants must be Colorado residents, have at least a 3.0 GPA, and commit 10-community service hours during year of funding.

The Sallie Mae Fund First in My Family Scholarship Program, developed in partnership with the Hispanic College Fund, offers scholarships to Hispanic-American students who are the first in their family to attend college, and have financial need. The program is open to Hispanic Americans who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled as full-time undergraduate students at approved, accredited institutions who have a minimum GPA of 3.0 Scholarships range from $500 to $5,000.

www.thesalliemaefund.orgThe Adelante Fund Scholarship Program sponsors several scholarship programs with amounts ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. Criteria vary by scholarship but most require a minimum 3.0 GPA, Hispanic heritage and either US citizenship or legal permanent resident status. See website for more information.

www.adelantefund.orgThe Emerging Latino Leaders Scholarship Program is a national essay contest sponsored by the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) and Best Buy Children’s Foundation. Two $10,000 and three $5,000 scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and community service.

www.lideres.nclr.orgThe La Unidad Latina Foundation offers academic scholarships of $250 to $1,000 for Hispanic students enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program at a 4-year US college or university. Applicants must have completed one full-time year of undergraduate education or at least one full-time semester of graduate study and GPA between 2.8 and 3.6

www.lulfoundation.orgThe Orange County Hispanic Education Endowment Fund provides more than 100 scholarships worth more than $150,000 to Orange County Hispanic students. Award amounts range from $500 to $4,000. Applicants must either be graduating from an OC high school or transferring from an OC community college. Minimum GPA requirements vary by scholarship program. All applicants must demonstrate financial need. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic achievement, community service and/or work history.

www.heef.orgThe Salvadoran American Leadership and Educational Fund offers the “Fulfilling Our Dreams” scholarships Salvadoran, Central American, and Latino high school seniors, college students and graduate or professional students who reside and study in California, Houston or Washington DC. The scholarships are open to all students regardless of immigration or citizenship status. Applicants must be majoring in health-related fields of study, theology, philosophy, cultural studies, environmental studies or social justice. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. Award amounts range from $500 to $2,500 (some may be renewable). A minimum 2.5 GPA is required; some awards require at least a 3.0 GPA. Scholarship recipients are expected to participate in community service and/or mentorship of high school students.

The Smithsonian Institution offers the Latino Studies Predoctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships to facilitate research related to Latino history, art and culture using Smithsonian resources. The predoctoral fellowships provide a stipend of $27,000 per year plus allowances. The postdoctoral fellowships offer a stipend of $42,000 per year plus allowances. There is also a research allowance of up to $4,000.

The Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement provides the ComEd Latino Scholarship Fund which awards five $2,500 scholarships to Illinois residents who have a 3.0 or higher GPA. Eligible majors include accounting, business, chemistry, communications, computer science, engineering, pre-law, mathematics, media relations and physics. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic excellence and community service.

The National Association of Hispanic Journalists offers several scholarships through the Rubén Salazar Scholarship Fund program. These scholarships are designed to encourage and assist Latino students pursue careers in journalism. Awards from $1,000 to $2,000. The NAHJ also provides information about a number of other scholarships available to Hispanic students interested in journalism.

The Advancing Hispanic Excellence in Technology, Engineering, Math, and Science (AHETEMS) Scholarship Program provides merit-based and need-based scholarships, in the amount of $1,000 – $5,000, to deserving Latino/a high school graduating seniors, undergraduate students, and graduate students who demonstrate both significant motivation and aptitude for a career in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.

National Society of Hispanic MBAs provides scholarships for Hispanic business majors and Master of Business Administration graduate students of between $2,500 and $10,000. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA from an accredited undergraduate institution, with some exceptions.

National Association of Hispanic Nurses provides 27 Hispanic students entering or enrolled in an accredited school of nursing scholarships in the amount of $1,000. The NAHN also provides information about a number of other scholarships for Hispanic students.www.thehispanicnurses.org

The Costco Pharmacy Scholars Program offers funds to students who are pursuing a degree in Pharmacy who have completed one-year of pharmacy school or are in their second year into their pharmacy education. Students who are chosen for the Pharmacy Scholars Program are required to work at a Costco Pharmacy store for at least one year and are awarded between $500 and $9,500. Applicants must be of Hispanic background, pursing a degree in Pharmacy, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident residing in the United States or Puerto Rico, be studying full-time as an undergraduate at an accredited university in the United States or Puerto Rico, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and demonstrate financial need.

www.costcoscholarshipfund.orgThe Google Hispanic Scholarship Program offers funds to students studying computer science or computer engineering who are juniors or seniors in college or pursuing a Master’s or PhD. Selected scholars will be invited to an all-expenses paid trip to the Google Headquarters in California. Must be Hispanic or of Hispanic background, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident residing in the US, studying full-time in the US or Puerto Rico, and have at least a 3.5 GPA.

See Hispanic Scholarship Fund for more details.

World Studio.org is a non-profit, international arts organization that promotes the work and education of minority and disadvantaged students in the fields of graphic arts, painting, furniture design, new media, photography, and other art forms. Awards range from $2,000 to $6,000.

While tradition and social conditions have sometimes limited the opportunities available to women in the past, today this struggle may prove to be an advantage when it comes to getting scholarship money. In fact, minority women, especially those with a passion for math, science or computers, have more leverage power for earning scholarship money than almost any other group! Here are just a few scholarships for Latinas.

Hispanic Women in Leadership awards scholarships to graduating seniors based on academic performance, leadership, and economic need. Applicants must be enrolled in a college or university in Texas, ranked in the upper 1/4 of her class, and submit several supporting documents such as letters of recommendation and essays.

The AT&T Labs Fellowship Program offers three-year fellowships to outstanding under-represented minority and women students pursuing PhD studies in computing and communications-related fields. In addition to one-on-one mentoring, the fellowship pays all education expenses as well as a living stipend. Each recipient participates in a summer internship the first summer in the program, working in a research team at AT&T Labs Research. Applicant must be a US citizen or permanent resident, female or member of a minority underrepresented in science fields (Hispanic, African-American, or Native American)senior graduating in the current academic year or in their first or second year of grad school, currently enrolled, or planning to enroll, in a graduate school program leading to a PhD, and major field must be in computer science, math, statistics, electrical engineering, operations research, systems engineering, industrial engineering, or related fields.

The Hispanic Women’s Corporation Scholarship Program provides not only tuition support, but advice, encouragement, peer contact with the colleges, role models, an alumni base and success stories to motivate students. Monetary awards are based on grade point average, need, interest, volunteerism and dedication. Awards have ranged from $300 to $10,000 annually. HWC awards over 50 scholarships annually and students are presented at the annual HWC Scholarship Benefit Luncheon. HWC also provides information about additional sites for scholarship availability with descriptions and deadlines.

The Latin American Professional Women’s Foundation provides scholarship money to young women who can be considered “role models” for young Latinas. Award amount is $500.

No website available.

Project Cambio offers a scholarship to Hispanic women pursuing studies in a business-related program. The applicant must be planning a career change that will lead to advancement, a new proficiency or entry or re-entry into the work force. Applicants should have been out of high school at least 5 years.

No website available.

Society of Women Engineers Rockwell International Corp. Scholarships is for female minority students studying computer science or engineering who areattending or planning to attend an institution that is SWE approved or has an Accreditation Board ofEngineering and Technology program. Awards are based on academic achievement and leadershipexperience or potential. Scholarship amounts range from $1,000 to $10,000.

Young Latinas Leadership Institute is a program of 100 Hispanic Women, a nonprofit, nonpartisan women’s organization with members from a wide range of industries and interests. The Institute provides students with annual scholarships of $1,000, leadership seminars, mentors, and internships. Five Latinas are selected every year. Applicants must be college freshmen at one of the City University of New York college campuses

The Chicana/Latina Foundation Scholarship Fund assists Latina students to complete their undergraduate and graduate education. The scholarships are available on a competitive basis to continuing undergraduate and graduate female college students of Latino background. Applicants must be enrolled in accredited colleges or universities in one of the following Bay Area counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marina, Monterey, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, or Sonoma. In addition, applicants must be residents of the Bay area for at least two years at time of application, and must have demonstrated leadership and civic/community involvement. Awards are for $1,500. Recipients must agree to volunteer a minimum of five hours in support of the Chicana/Latina Foundation.

Many students believe that they won’t be eligible for scholarships unless they’re the valedictorian or a star athlete or got a perfect score on their SAT. What these students don’t realize is that today there are scholarships for almost any skill or unique quality you can think of. You no longer have to break the state track record or win a national science fair to get money for college. Now you can earn scholarship money simply for having an unusual hobby or distinctive trait, for anything from knitting to being left-handed and from duck-calling to being interested in space and science fiction! Take a look at these weird, interesting, and fun scholarships we found and remember that applying for scholarships, just like the whole college admissions process, isn’t about being the world’s most perfect student but about highlighting your personal strengths and abilities.

Scholarships just for being you:

Tall Clubs International (TCI) Scholarship
This scholarship is for those who have always been asked to get things down from the top shelf. Tall Clubs International (TCI) offers a $1,000 scholarship for tall people, the Kae Sumner Einfeldt Scholarship. Women who are at least 5’10” and men who are at least 6’2” are eligible. Candidates must be under 21 years old and plan to attend college in the fall.

Little People of America Scholarship
By contrast, The Little People of America scholarship is an award given to future and current students who are 4’10” or less in height attending a college or vocational school. Prizes range from $250 to $1,000—sometimes more. Although one does not have to be a little person to apply, the greatest preference is given to LPA members who have been diagnosed with a form of dwarfism. Students with dwarf-diagnosed family members and those who demonstrate financial need are also given preference.

Scholarship for Left-Handed Students
For those in the company of greats like Albert Einstein, Picasso, and Jimmi Hendrix, Juniata College offers the Frederick and Mary F. Beckley Scholarship of up to $1,000 for left-handed students.

Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship
Do you delight in finding new ways to cook tofu? Do your parents roll their eyes at your “meat is murder” bumper sticker? If so, you might be eligible for the Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship. High school seniors who promote vegetarianism in their schools and communities are eligible to win one of the group’s two $5,000 scholarships.

National Beef Ambassador Program
For those fonder of big macs than veggie burgers, a few lucky award winners will get the chance to represent the beef industry, and will receive a college scholarship. The National Beef Ambassador Program (NBAP) is a speech and interview competition for students between the ages of 16 to 19. Winners can earn between $250 and $2,500.

Twins Who Don’t Mind Seeing Each other for 4 More Years
Several schools offer scholarships for twins: Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia, waives tuition for one twin when both enroll, Lake Erie College in Painsville, Ohio, offers half-off tuition for each twin, Wilson College in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, has 45% discounts available on tuition for female twins only, Carl Albert State College in Oklahoma offers the Paula Nieto Twin Scholarship, George Washington University in Washington, DC gives a 50% discount for the second sibling, Randolph-Macon Women’s College in Lynchburg, VA gives a 15% discount, Sterling College in Kansas offers a 50% discount for each twin, and West Chester University of Pennsylvania offers the Bonnie Evans Feinberg Scholarship for twins.

Last Name Scholarships
A number of schools offer scholarships for students with particular last names. The Zolp Scholarship is restricted to students at Loyola University in Chicago who are Catholic and whose last name is Zolp. The good news is, the scholarship provides full tuition for four years; the bad news is, have you ever heard of anyone named Zolp? Texas A&M University pays full cost of attendance at for anyone whose last name is Scarpinato by birth or marriage. The John Gatling Grant provides scholarships for students who were born with a surname of Gatling or Gatlin to attend NC State University. The scholarship provides up to $9,000 for in-state students and $18,000 for out-of-state students. The Van Valkenburg Memorial Scholarship awards $1,000 to students with the Van Valkenburg name or a similar variation . Even Harvard University has several scholarships based on the student’s last name, including Baxendale, Hudson, Thayer, Downer, Bright.

Money for that unique hobby you never thought would pay off:

Chick and Sophie Major Memorial Duck Calling Contest
Students who can quack their hearts out for 90 seconds using four calls: hail, feed, comeback and mating and can win big ducks, I mean, bucks for higher education (we couldn’t resist a least one bad pun). Seriously though, The Duck Calling Contest awards $1,500 to the best duck-calling high school student. The first runner-up receives $500, the second $300 and the third $200 in scholarship money.

Patrick Kerr Skateboard Scholarship
Now how to land a kickflip? Could you do Ollies in your sleep? The Patrick Kerr Skateboard Scholarship awards one $5,000 and three $1,000 scholarships to skateboarders who are high school seniors with a GPA of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale and submit an essay on how skateboarding has had a positive impact on their lives. Recipients must enroll as a full-time undergraduate at an accredited college or university the fall after high school graduation.

Writers and Illustrators of the Future Contest
In our first scholarship for sci-fi enthusiasts, student authors and artists can submit science fiction stories and/or illustrations to be considered for this award of up to $4,000. An entry consists of three black and white works illustrating a science fiction or fantasy story with no recurring theme. Entries may not have been previously published. Should the artist win the Illustrators Contest with their first entry, he is then sent a story from the companion L. Ron Hubbard Writers of The Future Contest for which to render an illustration. This illustration then becomes his or her entry in the yearly Grand Prize competition. Three winners are selected each quarter and are awarded $500 each; the yearly Grand Prize winner is awarded $4000.

American Welding Society Scholarships
Student welders familiar with trade skills such as allied joining, brazing, soldering and thermal spraying are eligible for this scholarship. The American Welding Society Foundation offers numerous scholarships to students interested in welding-related education or training programs. Award sizes depend on the scholarship.

SPAACSE Scholarships
The Society of Performers, Artists, Athletes and Celebrities for Space Exploration, Inc. (SPAACSE) offers two $1,000 scholarships: The SPAACSE Galaxy Music Scholarship for graduating high school seniors who are pursuing an interest in space music as a means of expressing the beauty and inspiration of the universe and The SPAACSE Liliane Webb Art Scholarship for graduating high school seniors who have an interest in space art.. The music submission must be recorded on either a cassette or CD and should be 4-6 minutes in length.
Candidates for the art scholarship must provide an original two-dimensional space artwork to be considered for this award. Candidates must also include a 1-2 page description of prior artistic and other school activities and awards.

Knitting
If you know the different between a knit stitch and a purl stitch and your friends make fun of you for having a grandma-hobby, you may be able to get scholarships. The American Sheep Industry Association sponsors four scholarships for applicants who submit a sample of an article of clothing they created completely with wool. Philadelphia University also offers the Bernard Steur Scholarship for textile engineering students with an interest in knitting. Also, The National Make It Yourself with Wool (NMIYWW) competition awards $2,000 and $1,000 scholarships for knitting wool garments. Winners are selected based on the appropriateness to the contestant’s lifestyle, coordination of fabric/yarn with garment style and design, contestant’s presentation, and creativity.

David Letterman Telecommunications Scholarship
Because David Letterman was a C student at Ball State University, he established a scholarship at his alma mater that is awarded to telecommunications majors based strictly on the creativity of a submitted project, rather than a student’s GPA. The awards are intended for average students who nevertheless have a creative mind. Projects may involve a variety of media, including written work, research, audio, video, graphics and film. The winner receives a $10,000 scholarship. The first runner-up receives $5,000. The second runner-up receives $3,333.

Aspiring Children’s Television Stars
Similarly, The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences awards three $10,000 scholarships annually in the name of the late Fred Rogers (yes, Mr. “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood” Rogers) to college students pursuing a career in children’s media.

Rodeo
At last those lasso skills can rope you some money. Institutional awards, like Colorado State University’s rodeo scholarships, are usually reserved for students on the school’s rodeo team. Private awards, like the San Angelo Rodeo Scholarship, give students more flexibility in their college choice, but often have other requirements, like county of residence.

Puppetry
The Connecticut Guild of Puppetry offers the Margo Rose Scholarship for students involved in puppetry who wish to attend the National Puppetry Conference. The American chapter of the theatre organization Union Internationale de la Marionette, offers scholarships for students with experience in puppetry to study at the Institut Internationale de la Marionnette in Charleville-Mezieres, France. Since puppetry degree programs are rare, most scholarships in this field are for private programs or for puppetry studies within a theatre arts department. Pinocchio would be proud.

Chess
Chess stars could turn their winning moves into money for college. Several colleges, including Texas Tech University, the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and the University of Texas at Dallas, offer promising chess players up to four-year, full-tuition scholarships. The United States Chess Federation provides information on chess tournaments and available chess scholarships, both college and privately-sponsored. Casual chess players, be warned, these scholarship programs are often very competitive.

Rugby
Rugby may not be an official sport at most U.S. universities, but it can still help pay your college costs. Rugby scholarships are offered at New Mexico University, Texas A&M University, Saint Bonaventure University and many other colleges. Playing rugby can also send you abroad. The Center for International Studies offers a rugby study abroad program for students to study for one or two semesters in Wellington, New Zealand and play in a local rugby club. A $500 scholarship is available to make this program more affordable. Check with USA Rugby for more rugby scholarships.

United States Bowling Congress (USBA) Scholarships
Yes, bowling congress. And each season, bowling associations, councils, tournaments and proprietors offer over $6 million in scholarship money. Some of these programs include the Chuck Hall Star of Tomorrow Award for $1,500 per year for three years, the Annual Zeb Scholarship for $2,500, the Alberta E. Crowe Star of Tomorrow for $1,500 per year for three years, the Youth Ambassador Award for $1,500, and the Gift for Life Award for $1,000.

Bagpipe Majors at Carnegie Mellon
One of the least competitive scholarships in the U.S.—it’s not unusual for there to be zero applicants—is the Carnegie Mellon University Bagpipe Scholarship. It offers $7,000 per year to a student who intends to major in bagpiping. You even get a kilt subsidy.

Just plain unusual scholarships:

Duck® brand duct tape Stuck at Prom® Contest
The Duck Brand Duct Tape Stuck on Prom Contest is open to students ages 14 years or older who are attending a high school prom in the spring. Entrants must enter as a couple and attend a high school prom wearing complete attire or accessories made from duct tape. The submission must include a color photograph of the couple together in prom attire. The winning couple gets $3,000 each towards college and some cash for their school to boot. Other prizes include $1,000 for second place, $500 for third, and Duck Tape sportswear for honorable mentions. The winning couple will be selected based on a variety of criteria, including originality, workmanship, quantity of Duck Tape used, use of colors, and creative use of accessories.

Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year (SAMMY) Award
If you demonstrate excellence in academics, athletic performance, leadership and community service, and like to sport a milk mustache, this is the scholarship for you. Candidates must also be a resident of one of the 48 contiguous states or the District of Columbia. Each of 25 winners receives $7,500 in scholarship money, a designated place in the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex and a role in a USA Today Milk Mustache special.

Students for Organ Donation Youth Leadership Award
Candidates of this awardmust have made a commitment to raising awareness of organ donation and transplantation. Selection is based on effectiveness, leadership, creativity and sustainability of efforts. Applications may be based either on a report of previous events that have successfully raised organ donation awareness, or a detailed and realistic plan to raise donor awareness. One or two $500 to $1,000 scholarships will be awarded.

Evans Scholars Foundation Scholarship
Where would golfers be without their caddies? Not very far. For all of their help, caddies are finally being rewarded by the Evans Scholars Foundation. Each year, the Western Golf Association awards scholarships to more than 200 student caddies. Scholarship winners are required to reside in the scholarship house at each participation college. They must also demonstrate academic merit, financial need, exceptional character and, of course, a great caddie record.

Klingon Language Institute Award
Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a Klingon-loving Trekky to apply. The Klingon Language Institute (KLI) awards this $500 scholarship award to one graduate or undergraduate student each year. The scholarship was created to encourage the study of and achievement in the area of language. Applicants must be nominated by a school department and must demonstrate academic merit. Submissions should include the nomination letter, two recommendation letters, a resume and a statement of future intent.

The National Candy Technologists Scholarship
The American Association of Candy Technologists (AACT) awards a $5,000 scholarship to sophomore, junior and senior students who demonstrate an interest in confectionary technology. The award is paid in two $2,500 installments to winners who attend an accredited four-year college or university. Applicants must earn a 3.0 GPA and be majoring in food science, chemical science, biological science or a related field, and, of course, be a bit of a chocoholic.

National Marbles Tournament Scholarship
This isn’t your friendly game of marbles—this game is for keeps for the eight to fourteen-year-old players who compete. The King and Queen of Marbles (yes, that’s what they call the winners) will each receive $2,000, and, to calm things down a bit, a sportsmanship award of $1,000 will also be granted. The eight pages of rules, albeit in large child-like print, will show you just how serious these competitors are.

The Spirit of the Hiram College Hal Reichle Scholarship
Here is some chicken soup for the college student soul. This scholarship is administered by the Secret Society of Serendipitous Service to Hal, otherwise known as SSSSH. Hal Reichle had a history of secretly surprising people with sweet gifts. He was a modern-day Santa Clause and SSSSH is convinced that Hiram College has more of them. It’s about time being nice got you some cash!

In the last year, many families have decided that they would allow allow their children to apply to in-state state schools. As I have often said, this needlessly limits options, because many private schools offer scholarships that bring their net-cost in line with that of a state school, despite the fact that their sticker price is much higher. In addition to researching merit scholarships, students in some states have the option of taking place in a regional state program. In these programs, if a major is not offered in the student’s home state, but is offered at a state school in another state within the program, the student can attend for a reduced rate. The tuition depends on the program but typically ranges from in-state tuition to 1.5 times in state tuition. Here is a summary of the different regional state programs available in the United States.

If a major isn’t offered in your home state, but is offered at a school in another state, you are eligible for reduced tuition. Typically it is 1.5 times in-state tuition. One thing to watch out for is if you change your major to a major that is not offered in the program, you need to pay back the difference in tuition. You can check the various majors that are available on the website, www.nebhe.org. The only schools that participate are state schools. They offer Associates and Bachelors degrees through the program.

This is the most generous of the programs, as participants pay in-state tuition at participating institutions. Also, if you end up changing your major, the tuition change will be effective for the semester when you make the change, but you might not need to pay back retro-active tuition savings. To learn about the schools and majors available through this program visit, www.sreb.org.

The Midwest Student Exchange Program operates on the same premise as the other programs, that is if a major is not offered at one of your in-state state schools you qualify for a reduced tuition at another participating state school. Unlike the other programs, the MSEP includes some private schools as well. Students qualify for 1.5 times in-state tuition at the state schools and for a 10% tuition reduction at participating private schools. Learn more about the program at www.mhec.org.

This program consists of state schools, and like the other programs if a major is not offered at one of the state schools in your home state, but is offered at another participating institution, you are eligible for reduced the tuition. The tuition in this program is 1.5 times in-state tuition. Learn more about the program at www.wue.wiche.edu.